Hermitage wins Dutch Building Award 2011
Former minister Karla Peijs presents architect Hans van Heeswijk and Hermitage Amsterdam director Ernst W. Veen with de Nederlandse Bouwprijs 2011 (‘The Dutch Building Award 2011’) yesterday during a gala event in Utrecht.
Between June 2007 and June 2009 a metamorphosis took place next to the River Amstel; the Amstelhof nursing home changed into a state-of-the-art museum, Hermitage Amsterdam.
The jury deemed the contrast between the history of the nursing home and the building’s new function to be very unique. The old structure is still recognisable, and new elements have been integrated with care and devotion. The Hermitage Amsterdam harmonises wonderfully with the exceptionally rich context of the city and is carefully integrated into its surroundings. The original building has been treated with respect thanks to the restrained detailing. All the senses are stimulated. The entrance through the old Ossenpoort (=Ox Gate) and the splendid inner courtyard are noteworthy, the jury reports. The street level has even been lowered so that the street and courtyard connect with each other at the same height through the gateway.
Moreover, the renovation is a successful collaboration between the architect, interior designer and landscape architect. The fine teamwork among all parties involved resulted in a project built with craftsmanship and an eye for detail. This is clearly visible according to the jury. The result bears witness to excellence on the partof the client. The jury considers it particularly noteworthy that the project was completed on time and within the budget, making it a valuable and unique achievement.
Winner: Hans van Heeswijk Architects in collaboration with the Hermitage aan de Amstel Foundation, Merkx+Girod Architecten, Michael van Gessel, and Bouwbedrijf M.J. De Nijs en Zonen.
